Are you affected by abuse?

Support Available   Keeping Safe

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse isn't just physical.  It’s about someone you know trying to control your life - a partner, ex partner, friend or family member.  It can be financial, psychological, emotional or sexual and there is no excuse for it. Abuse can affect you long term by damaging your self esteem and wellbeing and that of your children.

Ask yourself…

• Are you prevented from seeing friends or family or from leaving the house?
• Are you constantly criticised?
• Does someone constantly check up on you or follow you?
• Have you or your children been hurt or threatened?
• Does someone control your finances?
• Are you made to take part in sexual activity that you don’t like or aren’t comfortable with? 
• Are you afraid of someone you live with or someone you know?

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Any age, any culture, any social class, any religion or lifestyle. Domestic violence can take place in lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender relationships, and can involve other family members, including children.

Do you think domestic abuse might be happening in your own relationship?

In a healthy relationship both partners treat each other with respect, this means you feel safe and free to be yourself. You shouldn't feel scared, intimidated or controlled by your partner.

Answer the following questions honestly to work out if your partner treats you with respect.

Your Partner	Agree	Don't Agree
They refuse to compromise
They stop you feeling comfortable being yourself
They are jealous and possessive about you
They like to control what you wear, where you go and/or what you do
They physically hurt you
They emotionally hurt you (e.g. calling you names, threatening you, making you feel bad)
You never feel very safe with them
They don’t respect your feelings, your opinions, your friends and family
They don’t think no means no, including to sex

If you have answered 'Agree' to any of these questions, you could be in an abusive relationship and may want to get some advice.